15 Best Things to Do in Benson (AZ)

Benson is a small city located in the Cochise County of the state of Arizona, which has a population of around 5,000.

The largest nearby city is Tucson, located 45 miles away. Benson was founded as a rail terminal for the area in 1880. The name of the city comes from Judge William S. Benson, a friend of the president of the Southern Pacific Railroad.

While it’s a small city, there are still plenty of interesting things to do there. So if you happen to be in Benson (AZ), make sure to try some of these activities.

1. Ride a Horse at the Double R Guest Ranch

If you’re looking for a western adventure just like in the movies, then the Double R Guest Ranch is the place to go.

Whether you are an advanced jockey or a beginner who has never ridden a horse in your life, the ranch has a certain horse and a certain trail for you.

They offer amazing horseback riding in the areas surrounding the ranch. If you are a beginner, you can enjoy a leisurely ride on some gentle trails, while if you are an advanced rider you can try the fast-paced rides in the mountains.

2. See the Kartchner Caverns State Park

Whether you are passionate about the underground world or not, visiting this cave can make a great adventure for the entire family. The cave was discovered in 1974 and is now a major tourist attraction of the area.

It has not only the tallest natural column formation in Arizona, but also the longest stalactite formation in the world.

You will be guided by an expert who will explain everything, so you can better understand the mysteries of the caves and the formations and minerals that can be found here.

6. Watch the Stars at the Butterfield RV Resort Observatory

Located at an altitude of 3,600 feet, Benson is a great place from where you can watch the stars at night. Watch not just with the naked eye, but from a state-of-the-art observatory that includes an amazing telescope.

There is a show every night and an expert astronomer will first make a short presentation, introducing you to this awesome field, and then you will be able to observe stars and planets through the telescope.

The experience is both fun and informative and can be enjoyed by anyone, no matter the age.

8. Visit the Benson Historical Museum

Travel back in time by finding the history of Benson and the surrounding area. Located in an old building from 1920, it displays all sorts of interesting items and antiques.

Here you will also find old maps of the area and see various tools and objects used many years ago.

There are also guides that will present all the facts and will gladly answer your questions. It’s a small museum, but it’s packed with lots of goodies, plus they also have a little gift shop with items made by locals.

11. Pet a Donkey at Forever Home Donkey Rescue

If you wish to admire some beautiful donkeys, horses and mules, then this is the place to go. The animals found at the Forever Home Donkey Rescue are very calm and friendly and they are used to hanging around people.

Kids can pet them and admire them in their natural habitat, while adults can help with the grooming process.

The owners of this place are very friendly and you can see their love for these animals. Make sure to give them a call or an email before visiting to make an appointment.

12. Take a Hike in the Whetstone Mountains

Source: Jenny Swab / shutterstock

Whetstone Mountains

If you like hiking and outdoor activities, then you will love the beautiful scenery of these mountains. If you take the trails that start at the Kartchner Caves State Park, you can easily get to the Whetstone Mountains by foot. The highest peak in these mountains is the Apache Peak, found at a height of 7714 feet (2,351 meters), which is quite high.

14. Enjoy the Endeavor Art Gallery

Here you will find a wide variety of paintings and other forms of art from local artists. New pieces are always added, so even if you visited the gallery some time ago, it’s worth seeing it again. The place has a friendly and relaxing vibe.

Plus, you can also buy the art pieces that you like and you will find a nice gift shop where you can get something to remind you of Benson and its Endeavor Art Gallery.